Nationality: Korea Republic
Date of Birth: 17 October 1951
Mother tongue: Korean
Other Languages: English, German, Japanese,
Chinese
Place of Residence: Seoul, Korea Republic
Confederation represented
AFC
FIFA Ex-Co member since
1994
Other functions in football
President of Korea FA
Honorary president of the East Asia Football Federation
Occupation
Chairman of Asan Foundation
Chairman of Ulsan University
Member of Korean Parliament
Professional career
Chairman of Hyundai Heavy Industries
Guest professor at Tokyo University
Hobbies
Sports: playing football, tennis, skiing, mountain hiking.
Reading books, watching movies, drinking with friends
What does football mean to you?
Football is a school of life! We learn how to win and how to
lose
Which football club did you support as a child?
My high school football team which won the national
tournament many times
Did you ever have an idol in football?
All the good and hard working players on the pitch, young and
old.
What is your fondest footballing memory?
The 2007 U-17 eight countries tournament in Korea. And
especially the final between Brazil and Nigeria which ended up at
2-2, followed by a penalty shoot out. It was really entertaining
and as excellent as a World Cup final!
What has been your biggest disappointment in football?
My belief is that football is a spectacular sport
and it has more potential than we realise. It is not only about the
physical health of the players, but rather about the good health of
human communities in the world.
